Blinds and Shutters: Which Suits Your Home?

Choosing between blinds, shutters, and shades may be a matter of taste for many homeowners; however, there are some functional differences between them that could affect a buyer’s choice. Of course, some buyers add a combination of these window treatments to their home depending on what they like best as well as other considerations like affordability. Whether you are looking to install one of these window treatments for a room or even many rooms, the following guide will help you explore all the nuances of these window coverings.

Difference between Blind and Shutters

When renovating your home, you should always stay close to the home’s original character. If your street is lined with Victorian-era Tudors and you choose to turn your home into a glass-fronted homage to modern architecture, it will stick out uncomfortably and annoy your neighbours. Also, the more you differ from the home’s original structure, the higher the cost of the renovation and the less your chance of getting a return on investment. One consideration that you have to put in your mind is the matter of blinds and shutters that will best suit your home.

Fundamentally, blinds are window coverings that have slats or vanes that enable the raising and lowering of the blind to cover the window but also to adjust the aperture of the vanes when the blind is down to let in more or less light. A shutter is typically a solid covering, often with slats that can be opened and closed to vary the light entering the room.

Blinds

Blinds come in a variety of shapes and styles, with horizontal and vertical slats being the distinctive feature, and occasionally with a sheer fabric overlaying the structure to provide a level of privacy when open. There are many materials associated with blinds, so their pricing tends to have a wide range. Aluminium and vinyl blinds, while highly functional, tend to be on the more affordable side of the spectrum while real wood blinds tend to be more expensive options. Of course, blinds are even made with sustainable materials like bamboo, which achieves the look of wood (as do faux wood blinds). Blinds are available in many styles to complement the home’s overall décor. After choosing some styles, consider how well they block light; not all blinds provide complete blockage, and that may be a privacy or security concern for some buyers.

Shutters

While shutters are often the most expensive option, their custom designs tailored to your windows can actually add value to your home! In addition to their durability and privacy, shutters come in a myriad of styles that make them a desirable option no matter if your home is in the style of Art Deco, 1950s ranch, contemporary bungalow, or even an ultra modern high rise apartment. The slats of shutters can also be adjusted to let in a desired among of light or none at all. Indoor shutters are adept at blocking light and providing ultimate privacy as well as timeless style.

There is no wrong choice—all of these options work well—the choice between them is ultimately the homeowner’s taste and the style and size of the room. Lastly, talk to a professional before attempting any serious or complicated projects. A professional will be able to give you advice so that you do not make costly or even dangerous mistakes. Always consult a professional when you are renovating your home for the best advice.